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Brain Injury Linkworker Service continues expansion to seven prisons across England and Wales

The award-winning Brain Injury Linkworker Service is expanding once again, bringing vital support to even more people in the criminal justice system.

The service identifies and supports individuals with a history indicative of brain injury, helping them access tailored interventions that assist with rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Having already established a presence in prisons across Wales and Southeast England, the service is now set to grow further.

By Summer 2025, it will extend to seven prisons across the Northwest, ensuring that more individuals receive the help they need. This expansion reinforces the charity’s commitment to addressing the often-overlooked needs of those potentially affected by brain injuries.

Addressing an Urgent Need

Research has consistently demonstrated a high prevalence of brain injuries among individuals in custody, often linked to cognitive impairments, mental health challenges, and difficulties in rehabilitation.

The Brain Injury Linkworker Service plays a vital role in identifying and supporting those with a history indicative of brain injury, ensuring they receive the necessary support to navigate the challenges they face.

This latest expansion builds on the service’s ongoing work in Southeast England and beyond.

The initiative provides essential support, including screening for brain injuries, tailored case management, and assistance in accessing rehabilitation services. By working closely with prison staff and healthcare professionals, linkworkers aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those who need it most.

Impact and Future Growth

The planned extension in Summer 2025 to seven prisons across the Northwest underscores the growing recognition of the importance of specialized support for individuals with a history indicative of brain injury within the justice system. This expansion is expected to enhance the service’s ability to:

  • Identify and assess individuals with a history indicative of brain injury at an earlier stage.
  • Provide more targeted interventions to support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending rates.
  • Train prison and healthcare staff to better understand and respond to the needs of inmates with brain injuries.

With these developments, the Brain Injury Linkworker Service is positioning itself as a national leader in bridging the gap between healthcare and justice for one of the most vulnerable populations. As the service continues to expand, it is hoped that more individuals will receive the support necessary to rebuild their lives and reduce their risk of reoffending.

Looking Ahead

The continued expansion of the Brain Injury Linkworker Service reflects a commitment to justice reform and the recognition that brain injuries require specialized attention within the criminal justice system. As the initiative grows, it has the potential to serve as a model for broader national implementation, ensuring that all individuals in custody have access to the care and support they need.

By addressing the challenges faced by those with a history indicative of brain injury, this initiative not only improves individual outcomes but also contributes to a more rehabilitative and effective prison system. The continued growth of the service, with its latest expansion into the Northwest, signals a promising future that aligns with broader efforts to create a more just and inclusive society.

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